RNS Number:9240Q
Thorntons PLC
15 October 2003



15 October 2003



                                 Thorntons PLC

                         ("Thorntons" or "the Company")


The independent directors of Thorntons, John Thornton and John Jackson, note the
recent movement in Thorntons' share price and confirm that there have been
preliminary discussions with a private equity house that may or may not lead to
an offer being made for the Company.


In this connection the independent directors have granted permission to the
management team to evaluate on a limited basis potential sources of finance to
enable the Company to be taken private.


Further announcements will be made in due course.





Enquiries:


Thorntons PLC

John Jackson, Non Executive Director Telephone: 07774 193033


Ingenious Corporate Finance Limited
Nick Harvey Telephone:                          020 7024 3666


Rothschild
James Fenwick Telephone:                        0113 200 1918

Buchanan Communications
Tim Anderson / Catherine Miles Telephone:       020 7466 5000


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                      This information is provided by RNS
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